We don't believe there’s a specific football boot for every position on the pitch. Whilst this idea isn’t entirely wrong, we consider that every foot and every player is unique and, therefore, each one needs to find the boot that best suits their individual characteristics. Ultimately, the best boot will be the one in which the player feels comfortable, confident and ready to perform at their best on the pitch. With this in mind, today we’re going to look at what we consider to be the best football boots for a goalscoring striker – a true number 9 with an instinct for the goal. That said, don’t forget that a good striker isn’t made solely from good kit, such as football boots.
WHAT'S THE BEST BOOT FOR STRIKERS?
To find out which professional football boots are best suited to a centre-forward, let’s first analyse the key playing characteristics that define a player in this position. From there, we’ll be able to understand why certain football boots might be a better fit than others.
We are talking about a player who, for much of the match, is constantly moving off the ball, looking for the right space between the opposition defenders to receive a pass that he can turn into a goal. On many occasions, he will also need to change direction quickly, anticipate the defenders’ movements or even jump to head a ball in the air. Furthermore, the centre-forward is one of the players who experiences the most physical contact during a match. In fact, he is probably the player on his team who is involved in the most physical challenges, as he is constantly in contact with opposing defenders, both with and without the ball. For all these reasons, it is essential that his football boots are comfortable and allow him to feel confident and protected in every move.
Based on this analysis of the game, we can now identify some key points that help us determine what characteristics a football boot should have for a centre-forward. Let’s get started: We’ll need a boot that offers sufficient structure and support to withstand contact with opposing defenders; it’s also important that the outsole provides excellent stability and allows for quick reactions in every move. Finally, the upper must offer excellent touch and a good feel for the ball, as even a small mistake can be enough to lose control.
Nike Phantom Venom
The former SL Benfica player is known for having worn the ‘Killers’ range of boots, which are specifically designed with technologies that, in theory, enhance the performance of a true goalscorer. One of the major innovations in the upper, made from a soft synthetic microfibre, is found in the striking zone, known as ‘Precision Power’, which improves the accuracy and speed of shots. It also features Flyknit on the instep, allowing the laces to be concealed.
Puma One
The boots of Kun Agüero, a player who thinks of only one thing: scoring goals. And that is precisely what he was aiming for with his Puma One boots, which feature very specific details, such as the stitching on the toe box, designed to prevent the natural leather from stretching excessively. This ensures a very high level of sensitivity on ball contact without ever losing support at any point during the match. The outsole features another of the boot’s key strengths: an ultra-lightweight Pebax plate, over which a combination of conical and laminated studs is distributed, designed to provide stability during turns, changes of pace and high-speed runs.
Nike Phantom VSN II
The upper is made from an enhanced Flyknit fabric featuring different textures that create a much softer finish. It doesn’t take several wears to mould to the foot and, just like the CTRs, it has a rougher finish on the inner side, providing greater grip to aid control and improve ball contact when passing. All of this is underpinned by ACC technology.
adidas Predator 20.1 Low Cut
The latest release from German brand adidas in 2020 is featured here in its low-cut version: a pair of Predators that retain all their essence. A powerful, structured boot, yet at the same time flexible and lightweight. This model allows a striker like Morata, of Atlético Madrid, to feel the ball perfectly with every touch. The new two-piece Control Frame plate is combined with an aggressively designed rear heel counter that incorporates internal padding to offer greater comfort and support. In addition, adidas has added a rubber reinforcement on the outside to reduce the risk of roll-over.
adidas Nemeziz 19.1
Real Zaragoza’s latest signing for their attack is former FC Porto player André Pereira. The young Portuguese striker wears the adidas boot range renowned for being designed for the German brand’s most agile players. However, its features are also a perfect fit for any striker whose main objective is to score goals. The one-piece upper, made from Primemesh material, aims to replicate the feel of Primeknit constructions, whilst offering extra thickness and stiffness. This makes the structure more durable and helps it retain its shape better.
Here are our picks for the best football boots for strikers. Do you use any of these ranges? What other boots would you add to this selection?
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